Daihatsu Terios (97-05) - Review

Review by Parkers on
As a tiny off-roader, the Terios is not really suited to the roads of the UK. It isn't a competent on-road performer like the RAV-4, and yet it can't cope with much more than a muddy track, either. The narrow body and high seating position are useful in town, but it isn't able to deliver much in the way of performance. Perhaps the only thing in its favour is Daihatsu's claim that it has the cleanest emissions of any 4x4.
1.5 out of 5

Other Daihatsu reviews

1.5 out of 5

Performance

Just the one - a 1.3 with 82bhp. It gets to 60mph in a lethargic 16.1s and to a top speed of 91mph. At least the fuel consumption is better: 36.7 mpg on the Combined cycle. Adequate around town, but complains at motorway speeds. Models after 2000 are less strained.

1.5 out of 5

Handling

Lack of a high/low ratio gearbox limits off-road ability and it's not powerful enough for serious towing. On-road grip is good, but the ride is poor - it's choppy on all but the smoothest roads. Over rougher surfaces, it's almost painful. Little feedback from the limp steering. The gearchange is ponderous.